The following article originally appeared in the Yorkshire Evening Post. I am a governor at New Bewerley and although the commemoration was a while ago I was reminded of Janette’s great contribution to school at the end of year assembly last week.
As part of her work as a teaching assistant, Janette Parker encouraged her pupils to take an interest in gardening. Mrs Parker sadly lost her six month battle with cancer last July, but the gardening club at New Bewerley Community School in Beeston – which she founded – continues to flourish.
So it was an emotional day when pupils, parents, teachers and governors dedicated a special memorial bench in the garden which she loved. a collection was held to raise money for the bench, with pupils writing special letters about their memories of Mrs Parker to go with their donations.
Teacher and friend Georgina Barnes, who went to University with Mrs Parker, paid an emotional tribute to the inclusion assistant describing her as a “witty, intelligent woman”. She said “She gave so much time and patience to the children she supported. They grew to love her. The gardening club which would never have been established without her help and commitment still flourishes today.
“I truly miss this wonderful woman with whom I spent many happy times – she gave me laughter and kindness. we were truly lucky and blessed to have known this lady.”
